NEW YORK — The New York Mets have reportedly reached an agreement with pitcher Clay Holmes on a three-year deal worth $38 million, according to a source closely connected to the negotiations.
The source, who requested anonymity, confirmed that the contract for the 31-year-old right-handed pitcher is contingent upon him passing a physical examination.
Holmes is slated to earn $13 million annually for the first two years of the contract, with a reduced salary of $12 million for the final year in 2027. Furthermore, he has the option to become a free agent after the 2026 season, providing him with additional flexibility in his career.
Holmes previously showed promise as a dominant closer while with the New York Yankees, a role he took on after being traded from the Pittsburgh Pirates in July 2021. He has since been recognized as a two-time All-Star. Nonetheless, he faced challenges this season, grappling with control issues and giving up hits on softer contact. His performance led to a loss of his closer position to Luke Weaver following a significant game-ending grand slam against Texas rookie Wyatt Langford on September 3.
In the 2023 season, Holmes recorded a 3-5 record, with a 3.14 ERA and 30 saves over 67 games, but also had the unfortunate distinction of leading the league with 13 blown saves. However, during the postseason, he managed to regain his effectiveness, particularly with his sinker, transitioning into a reliable setup man for the Yankees.
